Saint John’s Wort is a miraculous herb. Used as a topical, it can:

—soothe inflamed and irritated nerves
—block pain signals to the brain
—heal cuts and scrapes, strengthening skin tissue integrity
—relieve rashes and burns

Saint John’s is considered a common weed and I see it in empty lots and along the roadside. It blooms from June to August.

An unusual aspect of Saint John’s Wort is that it must be prepared fresh. It is almost useless as a dried herb. I can’t speak to how it is prepared as a supplement since I only use my herbs topically. It is possible that when it is consumed internally, the fresh rule doesn’t apply or that supplement makers have found a way to retain the freshness in their preparations.

I harvest the tiny flowers and buds during prime blooming time right into a jar and prepare to infuse it immediately. Pack the jar as much as you can and fill it right to the top.

Step One: Infuse as a liniment

Add 80-proof vodka to cover the herb. Vodka is the best spirit to use for a liniment because it is colorless and odorless. 80-proof is the strength used for a topical to avoid harsh skin reactions.

Step Two: Set Aside

Place on a shelf out of the sunlight for one month. As Saint John’s infuses, the liniment becomes a lovely shade of red.

Step Three: Strain

Place a cheesecloth or piece of muslin into a strainer set over a bowl or large measuring cup. Pour contents of jar into strainer, straining out the herb and leaving the infused liniment in the bowl or cup.

Step Four: Store

Using a funnel, pour infused liniment into a glass bottle. Label it with the contents and date, then store it in a cool, dark place. Liniments should keep for up to 10 years.

Saint John’s Wort is perfect in Sore Muscle Solution because it works directly on the nerves to block pain signals to the brain. Whether you have overworked muscles or a strain that needs rest, Saint John’s will provide the needed pain relief. Combined with menthol-rich essential oils that calm inflammation, Sore Muscle Solution is an effective topical remedy for everyday muscle aches. I make it as a roll-on or as a lotion to suit individual preferences.